When Luis Correa ‘18 walks the halls of Hibbard Elementary School, he’s not just an educator—he’s an example of the full-circle impact of community support.
Fifteen years ago, Luis was a Hibbard student just starting out on the clarinet at The People’s Music School’s Albany Park program.
Now, he’s giving back to his community, working as a Special Education Classroom Assistant at Hibbard and helping with student security and safety at TPMS’s Albany Park program.
Early Days at Hibbard
Young Luis stands with his clarinet at Hibbard Elementary
Luis joined The People’s Music School’s Albany Park program at Hibbard Elementary at 9 years old. He remembers eagerly awaiting the day everyone got to choose instruments.
“One day, upperclassmen came into our class and showed us a bunch of instruments. I remember hearing the sound of the clarinet and instantly falling in love with it.”
Playing the clarinet allowed him to open up and express himself. “I was a shy and timid kid. It was at TPMS that I got to break out of my shell a little bit. Being in a big ensemble – it helped me make new friends and talk to teachers.”
The lessons Luis learned at TPMS extended beyond the classroom. He credits TPMS with helping him develop a stronger sense of self and connect with his community—qualities that have shaped his career and life. “TPMS really helped me with my own personal growth,” he says.
Back To His Roots
Luis with his sister and TPMS alum Lizbeth
Luis’s path to education started serendipitously. While working in a summer program at a nearby school, Hibbard Elementary Principal (and his former middle school principal) Hiliana Leon encouraged him to apply for a position at Hibbard. Luis seized the opportunity, excited to contribute to the community that raised him.
Now, as an Special Education Classroom Assistant, he works with diverse learners at Hibbard Elementary. “Working in education can be challenging, but it’s also so rewarding,” he says. “When I see a student’s face light up or hear them say, ‘Mr. Luis, I missed you,’ it makes my day. It reminds me why I do this.”
Inspiring the Next Generation
The values Luis learned at TPMS—dedication, creativity, compassion—are evident in his work. He also sees his role as a way to pay forward the support he received as a student. “What I like about being back at Hibbard is that I’m able to help out,” he says. “Giving back is what I enjoy doing most.”
Reflecting on his journey, Luis has advice for students following in his footsteps: “If you have a goal, go for it. There will be obstacles, but you can overcome them. And overcoming them will make you even more successful.”